A Study of Dislocation Loops Growth in Zr -Sn Alloys under Neutron Irradiation by Rate Theory Modelling

We extend reaction rate theory to study dislocation loops growth and associated radiation growth in binary Zr -Sn alloys under neutron irradiation at reactor conditions. A model to describe experimental data for loop s' number density is proposed. We discuss dose dependences of dislocation loop radii, their densities and growth strains and analyse an influence of irradiation temperature and sinks ' strengths on statistical properties of loops. A competition between the interstitial and vacancy < a >-type loops is studied. Local loops distribution inside grains is analysed. Estimation of hardening of material is provided. Obtained results are compared with experimental observations.